Southern California Ballet (SCB) is a prominent San Diego-based ballet company with a rich history and a forward-looking artistic vision. Founded in 1983 as Black Mountain Dance Center, SCB established itself as a cornerstone of the regional arts scene and has since grown into a respected center for serious ballet training and performance. Under the direction of international award-winning artistic directors Martha Leebolt and Toby Batley since 2017, SCB maintains a Cecchetti-based training method refined by its leaders, ensuring a rigorous yet expressive approach for dancers of all levels.
The live experience
What reaches the room
SCB stages three core productions each year: The Nutcracker, a Spring Show, and an all-academy performance. The Poway Center for the Performing Arts has served as SCB's primary venue since 1990, offering a dedicated stage for the company’s diverse repertoire. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or discovering SCB for the first time, securing seats early is the best way to experience this San Diego institution.
Onstage company
Documented collaborators
For the latest on upcoming performances, tour updates, and behind-the-scenes insights, follow Southern California Ballet on their official channels. The company maintains an active presence on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, where you can connect with dancers, watch rehearsals, and learn more about the Cecchetti-based training that anchors SCB’s artistic identity.
Onstage company
Documented collaborators
Address: 12285 World Trade Dr. Ste. L, San Diego, CA 92128. If you’re planning a visit or want to catch a show, we’ve got you covered with current tour info and ticket options as soon as they’re announced.
The essentials
Quick Facts About Southern California Ballet
Founded in 1983 as Black Mountain Dance Center; now Southern California Ballet (SCB) based in San Diego.
Poway Center for the Performing Arts has served as SCB's main venue since 1990.
Artistic Directors since 2017 are Martha Leebolt and Toby Batley, international award-winning dancers.
SCB's training method is Cecchetti-based, with a syllabus updated by Martha and Toby after they joined.
Three core productions per year: The Nutcracker, a Spring Show, and an all-academy performance.
The Nutcracker 2025 was staged at Poway Center for the Performing Arts on December 20–21, 2025; ticket sales were closed.
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Biographical Overview
Founded in 1983 as Black Mountain Dance Center; rebranded to Southern California Ballet and based in San Diego.
Primary training and performance hub at Poway Center for the Performing Arts since 1990.
Artistic Directors since 2017: Martha Leebolt and Toby Batley — international award-winning dancers with a vision for a rigorous, disciplined, and expressive ballet education.
Training Method: Cecchetti-based syllabus updated by Leebolt and Batley to reflect contemporary artistry and technique while honoring classical foundations.
Core productions each year: The Nutcracker, a Spring Show, and an all-academy performance.
Active engagement with the community through school programs, outreach, and accessible performances for audiences of all ages.
The Nutcracker (storied seasonal centerpiece) — a production that blends classical narrative ballet with vibrant design and ensemble pieces.
Spring Show — a curated program featuring ensemble works, contemporary ballet excerpts, and student showcases.
All-academy performances — demonstrations of the company’s training progress, from the youngest to the most senior students, spotlighting the Cecchetti technique.
Collaborative productions and guest artist appearances when scheduled, presenting opportunities to experience SCB’s evolving choreographic voice.
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Upcoming Tour & Performances
Nutcracker 2025 recap: The Nutcracker performances at Poway Center for the Performing Arts took place December 20–21, 2025, with Nutcracker Field Trip Shows on December 18–19, 2025. Date to be announced for future seasonal renditions beyond 2025.
Seasonal lineup typically includes a Spring Show and an all-academy performance at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts, with additional regional appearances announced closer to the season. Check back for date confirmations and ticket on-sale information.
Venue: Poway Center for the Performing Arts remains SCB’s primary stage, offering a comfortable, acoustically favorable setting for classical and contemporary ballet works.